Due to Afghan Taliban forces unprovoked fire on multiple locations across the border in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan launched Operation Ghazab lil-Haq on Thursday. According to security officials, Pakistani troops responded immediately by targeting hostile positions and securing affected areas.
Soon after the escalation, political leaders across party lines voiced strong support for the armed forces. President Asif Ali Zardari stated that Pakistan would not compromise on its peace or territorial integrity. He warned that those who mistake Pakistan’s desire for peace as weakness would face a decisive response.
Similarly, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the nation and its armed forces remain fully prepared to defend the country’s sovereignty. He emphasized that Pakistan promotes peace; however, it will firmly counter any aggression. He added that the armed forces possess professional expertise, advanced training, and effective defense strategies to tackle both internal and external threats.
Strong Warnings to Kabul
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif described the military’s retaliation as forceful and ongoing. He urged political stakeholders, including the PTI-led government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, to stand united with the federation during this critical time.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti denounced the cross-border firing and lauded the prompt action taken by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. He said that Pakistan would safeguard its people at all costs and would not allow any safe zones for terrorists.
Moreover, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon also expressed patriotic feelings, saying “Long live Pakistan.” National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq and PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan also expressed their unflinching commitment to national unity.
With rising tensions, one thing is clear: Islamabad’s message is that Pakistan wants peace but is prepared to defend every inch of its land.
